chapter seventy-two:
❛ matching friendship bracelets ❜

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The sun was just beginning to set over the vibrant skyline of Hong Kong, casting a warm golden hue on the bustling streets below. Robby and Clementine stood at the edge of a busy street, the air alive with the sounds of chatter, laughter, and the sizzling of street food vendors cooking up delicious meals on every corner.

"Are you ready to explore the city?" Clementine grinned at Robby, her eyes sparkling with excitement. She was practically vibrating with anticipation as she pulled out her camera, adjusting the settings as Robby turned to her with a small, hesitant smile.

"I guess. It's just... all these people. Feels kind of overwhelming," he admitted, looking around at the masses of people hurrying to and fro. Despite his usual calm demeanor, there was a flicker of nervousness in his eyes, his hands tightening around the strap of his backpack.

Clementine's grin didn't falter. "Come on, it'll be fun. You'll see. We'll get lost, try some new food, and take a million pictures. Just like a tourist."

Robby raised an eyebrow but didn't argue. He was used to Clementine's energy and adventurous spirit by now. Plus, the thought of spending an entire day with her-without any distractions or commitments-was enough to ease some of his tension, even if it felt like his mind was constantly drifting back to the event coming up in a few days.

"Okay, okay. But no promises about the pictures," Robby said with a half-smile as Clementine immediately started snapping pictures of him, her camera flashing in rapid succession.

"Too late," she teased, taking another photo. "You're my model for the day."

Robby rolled his eyes, but the corners of his mouth twitched upwards. She had a way of making everything feel lighthearted, even when the weight of the world seemed to press on him.

They walked through the streets, the air thick with the aroma of fried dumplings, savory bao buns, and sweet egg waffles. Clementine kept pulling Robby in different directions, pointing out colorful stalls and local shops. She admired the intricate trinkets at one market, a collection of jade bracelets and intricate silk scarves hanging from the stalls like something out of a dream. Robby couldn't help but notice how carefully she examined everything, her curiosity infectious. He'd always admired her for how easily she dove into the unknown.

"Look, Robby!" Clementine held up a small jade bracelet, her expression intense as she inspected it. "This one's got the best engraving."

Robby shrugged. "It's cool, I guess. But I don't know, it's not really my thing."

Clementine huffed playfully, slipping the bracelet onto her wrist with a dramatic flourish. "Well, you're not the one who's gonna wear it, are you?" She grinned at him, capturing another photo. "You're just here for the experience."

They continued to wander, their laughter echoing as they strolled through another alley. The street vendors hawked everything from freshly made spring rolls to colorful pastries that seemed to shimmer in the light. Clementine stopped at one of the food carts, her nose twitching as she inhaled the rich, spicy scent of curry. Without hesitation, she ordered a bowl of noodles, practically bouncing on her heels in anticipation.

"You want some?" she asked, holding out a pair of chopsticks to Robby.

Robby glanced at the noodles, unsure. "I don't know... I'm not great with spicy food."

"Oh, come on!" Clementine laughed. "It's part of the adventure!" She leaned in, taking a bite of the noodles and then sticking a chopstick full of noodles into his hand before he could protest.

"Fine," he grumbled, but he couldn't help but smile as he hesitantly took a bite. The heat hit him immediately, and his eyes widened, a surprised laugh escaping his lips. "Okay, that's actually pretty good."

"Right?" Clementine said through a mouthful, clearly proud of her food choice. "See? You're an explorer now."

They continued to snack as they moved through the street, the lights of the market starting to flicker on as dusk settled over the city. The neon signs, written in both English and Chinese, began to light up the night, casting colorful reflections on the wet pavement. The energy was infectious, and for a moment, Robby felt his anxiety ease just a little bit.

But as they wandered deeper into the heart of the city, the noise and movement began to feel suffocating again. Robby kept glancing over his shoulder, his steps becoming a little more distracted. He tugged at the hem of his shirt, trying to shake the unease that had settled in his chest. Clementine didn't seem to notice, her focus fixed on the bustling scene in front of her. She had already turned her attention to the many bright stalls filled with trinkets and clothes.

As she snapped more pictures of him, Robby shifted uncomfortably, the smile on his face faltering for just a second. He was still looking forward to the rest of the day, but in the back of his mind, he couldn't shake the thought of what was to come. The event, the consequences, the pressure-it felt like a heavy cloud hanging over him, no matter how far away from home they were.

"You good?" Clementine suddenly asked, glancing up from her camera. She'd caught the brief shift in his expression.

Robby hesitated, his eyes flickering away. "Yeah, I'm fine. Just... a lot on my mind, I guess."

She studied him for a moment, her smile fading slightly as she tucked her camera into her bag. "You sure? You've been kind of... distracted. This should be fun, you know?"

Robby exhaled, rubbing the back of his neck. "I know. It's just... the event coming up. I keep thinking about what's at stake, you know? I mean, what if I screw it up? It's not just about me, it's about everyone else."

Clementine's face softened, her eyes flicking with understanding. She reached out and placed a hand on his arm, grounding him in the moment. "Robby, you don't have to do everything alone. I'm here, okay? And you're not going to screw anything up. You've got this. You always do."

He looked at her, and for the first time that day, the tightness in his chest loosened just a little. He gave her a small smile. "Thanks, Clem."

She smiled back, her fingers squeezing his arm gently before pulling away. "Alright, enough of the serious talk. We're in Hong Kong. You promised to be my tourist model, remember?"

Robby let out a chuckle, feeling a sense of relief wash over him as he leaned into the carefree atmosphere she created. "Yeah, yeah. Fine. But you better get some good pictures out of this."

"Don't worry, I will," she grinned, grabbing her camera again. "I'm gonna make you the most famous tourist in all of Hong Kong."

They continued to wander through the lively streets, the neon lights illuminating their path. As the night deepened, Robby allowed himself to be swept up in the magic of the city. The laughter, the bustling crowds, the energy of it all-he couldn't let it consume him. He had to let go, at least for a little while. He wasn't just Robby Keene, the kid with a complicated past. For this one day, he was just a guy in Hong Kong, exploring the streets with someone who made him feel like he could actually breathe again.

And maybe that was enough for now.

The air in the dojo felt thick with anticipation, the coolness of the polished wooden floors contrasting with the warmth of the sunlight streaming through the large windows. Robby and Clementine stood off to the side, their eyes scanning the room. It was nothing like the familiar, slightly run-down dojo they were used to back home. The walls were decorated with ancient martial arts weapons, their gleaming surfaces reflecting the light in strange angles. A row of international flags hung proudly, each one symbolizing the high-caliber competitors that had passed through this very space.

Robby adjusted the belt around his waist, suddenly feeling out of place. This wasn't a typical dojo. This was the kind of place where serious athletes trained, where the best from all over the world honed their skills. He could hear snippets of foreign languages and see the steely expressions of the other students, many of whom were already warming up with fierce concentration.

Robby shot a quick glance at Clementine, who seemed surprisingly unfazed by the intimidating atmosphere. She was bouncing lightly on the balls of her feet, her wide eyes taking in everything, and her ever-present grin tugging at the corners of her lips.

"Are you sure you're okay?" she asked, raising an eyebrow as she caught Robby's tense posture. "You're standing like you're about to face a bear, not some karate students."

Robby let out a small laugh, but it was tight, not quite genuine. "It's just... a little intimidating, that's all. I mean, look at these guys. They've probably been training for years."

"Years?" Clementine huffed, swatting his arm playfully. "Some of them might've started when they were born, but that doesn't mean we can't keep up." Her eyes twinkled with mischief as she scanned the room, her gaze landing on a group of serious-looking competitors who were stretching in perfect unison. "And besides, if they can do it, so can we. Right?"

Robby smiled, but it didn't quite reach his eyes. His mind was already racing. He didn't know if he was ready for this level of competition. The dojo was massive, and the silence in the room was almost suffocating. Each student was focused, not a single word of chatter exchanged between them. It felt like they were all waiting for something-waiting for him to slip up.

As if on cue, the dojo master-a tall, imposing figure who barely cracked a smile-stepped into the center of the room. The students instantly went quiet, turning to face him. His sharp eyes scanned the room as he spoke in a deep, commanding voice.

"Today is your first step toward becoming the best. This dojo is not for the faint of heart. You must give everything you have to the training. Nothing less will be tolerated."

The words hung in the air, making Robby feel like his pulse was in his throat. He exchanged a glance with Clementine, who gave him a small, reassuring wink. She didn't seem at all fazed by the dojo master's intensity. In fact, she looked like she was already itching to jump into the action.

Robby, on the other hand, felt like he was standing on the edge of a cliff.

The dojo master clapped his hands once, sharply. "We will begin with basic warm-ups. Form a circle."

Robby didn't hesitate to move into the formation, standing beside Clementine, who was practically bouncing on her feet. She leaned over and whispered, "Don't worry. They're just regular people. Well, except maybe the ones who can break bricks with their pinkies."

He shot her a sidelong glance, his lips twitching. "Great. Just what I needed to hear."

Clementine winked at him. "You're welcome."

The warm-up was intense-full of rapid punches, high kicks, and flowing movements that had Robby's muscles aching almost immediately. The precision of the movements was almost hypnotic, and he could see the way the other competitors flowed through their routines with perfect synchronization. It was clear that they were here to win, to be the best, and that only the strongest would survive.

By the time they finished, Robby was already feeling the burn in his legs, his breathing coming a little faster than he'd like. Clementine, on the other hand, looked like she was just getting started. She was smiling, bouncing lightly, her energy still in full swing.

"Okay, okay, I'm officially exhausted. But you're holding up well, Robby," she teased, nudging him with her elbow.

Robby grunted in response, wiping a bead of sweat from his forehead. "This is a lot harder than I thought it'd be."

"Come on," Clementine said, her voice light. "You're a natural. Look at you, keeping up with these world-class competitors."

Robby didn't respond, his attention shifting to the dojo master, who was now walking toward them with a steely expression.

"Pair up," the dojo master ordered, his eyes sweeping over the students. "Today, you will spar. Show me your skills."

Robby's stomach dropped. Sparring. In front of everyone.

He glanced over at Clementine, who had already narrowed her eyes in determination. She was probably ready for this, while Robby was still trying to calm the nerves coursing through his veins. He stepped forward, feeling the weight of the dojo master's gaze on him.

"Pair up with her," the dojo master said, pointing toward Clementine.

Robby shot her a look of surprise, but she just flashed him a grin. "See? Told you we were in this together."

He nodded, though the tightness in his chest didn't ease. He stepped onto the mat with her, facing off, the room quiet around them.

"Just like we practiced, right?" Clementine said, her voice light, as if they were sparring back at home in a quiet, empty dojo.

Robby nodded, trying to calm his nerves. "Yeah. No pressure. Just... don't break anything, okay?"

"Same to you!" she teased, stepping into her stance with surprising ease. Her movements were fluid, natural, as if she had been born in this dojo. She had an effortless grace, the kind that made Robby feel like he needed to catch up.

The bell rang, signaling the start of their sparring match.

Robby moved first, throwing a quick punch toward her midsection, but Clementine dodged it easily, spinning away with a quick flick of her foot. She laughed lightly as she took a step back, watching him closely, waiting for his next move.

"Come on, you can do better than that!" she called out, her voice playful, but her eyes sharp.

Robby's lips twitched. She was right. He could do better. He squared his shoulders and focused, pushing aside his nerves. He faked a punch to her left and then quickly shifted, sweeping his leg toward her feet. Clementine jumped, narrowly avoiding the move, and Robby followed through with a quick jab to her ribs.

She grinned, impressed. "Okay, okay, you've got some tricks up your sleeve."

They continued to spar, their movements quick and sharp, but there was an ease to it, a rhythm that felt familiar. Robby's heart started to settle as he focused solely on the fight. Clementine wasn't just his partner; she was his equal, challenging him, pushing him, but always with a sense of fun.

With every strike and counterstrike, Robby remembered why he was here. It wasn't about impressing the dojo master or beating out the other students. It was about learning, growing, and doing it all with Clementine by his side. They were in this together, and that made all the difference.

Finally, Robby spun into a sweeping kick that Clementine expertly blocked. They both took a step back, panting slightly, but with wide grins on their faces.

"Not bad for a first day, huh?" Clementine said, her breath coming in small bursts.

Robby shook his head, still grinning. "Not bad at all."

The dojo master stepped forward, nodding in approval. "You two are a good team. Keep that focus."

Robby met Clementine's eyes, a sense of pride welling up inside him. For a moment, the weight of the competition, the intensity of the dojo, all faded into the background. It was just them, their rhythm, and the knowledge that no matter what came next, they'd face it together.

The warm summer sun bathed the backyard in a soft, golden glow, casting playful shadows across the hammock where Alison and Eli sat. The air was filled with the scent of freshly mowed grass, and the faint sound of birds chirped from the nearby trees, giving the whole world a laid-back, carefree feel. It was the perfect day-just the kind of day Alison lived for.

She leaned back into the hammock, her bare feet brushing the cool grass, and smiled over at Eli, who was half-leaning against the tree, the sun illuminating his tousled hair in the best possible way. He was wearing his usual laid-back look: a graphic tee and ripped jeans, looking effortlessly cool, but Alison could tell something was on his mind. He hadn't said much all day, and she could feel his usual quiet energy, mixed with a hint of... something. Maybe it was the realization that summer was slipping away, or the looming weight of his future at Caltech, but something had him distracted.

Alison, on the other hand, was a bundle of sunshine, always looking for ways to make the most of every single moment. She had never understood the idea of letting time slip away unnoticed, especially with Eli. Their days together were numbered, and while she didn't want to admit it, she knew this summer-this last summer-was too precious to let slip through their fingers.

She had an idea.

"Hey, Eli," she said, sitting up in the hammock, her eyes twinkling. "I made something for you."

Eli looked at her, raising an eyebrow. "Oh boy. You look like you're about to announce some sort of mission."

"Kind of!" Alison said, bouncing off the hammock with the kind of energy that could only be described as contagious. She reached into her tote bag and pulled out a small, hand-stitched notebook, the edges frayed in the best kind of way. She opened it to a fresh page, and Eli's eyes immediately caught the title: Before Caltech Steals You.

Eli chuckled, shaking his head as he took the book from her hands. "What's this, some kind of dramatic farewell list?"

Alison laughed lightly, swatting his arm. "Dramatic? No! It's just a summer bucket list, Eli. A fun one! With all the things we've never done but should do before... you know... before you head off to college and forget all about me." She grinned playfully, but there was a hint of something deeper in her voice that Eli didn't miss.

He smiled softly, his gaze warming. "You're being dramatic again."

"Maybe," Alison said, shrugging with a carefree smile. "But we need to make every moment count. Like, what if we never have the chance to do something this silly again? You're about to be a freaking genius at Caltech, Eli. This is our time. I'm not letting it go to waste."

He looked at her for a moment, his usual teasing smile softening into something more genuine, as though he was reminded of how important she was to him. "Alright, alright. I'm listening."

Alison took a deep breath, then pointed to the first item on the list. "Number one: Win a claw machine prize." She raised her eyebrows as she glanced at him. "We're going to find the most impossible-to-get toy in the whole arcade and then-you're going to win it."

Eli laughed, his lips curving into an amused smirk. "A claw machine? Seriously?"

"Yep!" Alison said enthusiastically, her hands framing her face. "We'll win something so ridiculous that we'll have to carry it around all day. People will think we're crazy, and we'll let them. Who cares?"

"Okay, what else?" Eli asked, clearly humoring her.

Alison flipped the page and her finger traced over the list, a gleam in her eye. "Crash a pool party." She looked at him with a grin. "I know, I know. We're not exactly 'party crashers,' but imagine it! We show up with snacks, sunscreen, and the most ridiculous sunglasses we can find. Totally uninvited, of course."

Eli couldn't help but laugh. "You really think we're going to sneak into some random party, huh?"

Alison nodded seriously. "Of course! It's about spontaneity, Eli. It's about the thrill! We won't just crash it. We'll own it. And maybe we'll even do some weird dance moves. Or make a grand exit with the best snacks in hand."

"Yeah, sure. That sounds totally realistic," he teased.

Alison gave him an exaggerated pout. "You're not feeling it? Fine. Next one." She flipped the page dramatically. "How about-Have a horror movie marathon."

Eli's face lit up with intrigue. "That, I can get behind. But only if we pick the scariest ones. And not like the cheesy ones, the good ones. Something that'll make us question reality for at least a week."

Alison smiled. "Deal. But we're definitely throwing in one of those cheesy slasher flicks. You have to admit, those are fun too. Nothing says summer like screaming at the screen."

"You're not wrong," Eli agreed, nodding.

The next few items on the list were equally as ridiculous, each more random than the last: Take pictures with every weird statue we find (Alison insisted they needed to "document their adventures"); Get ice cream from a truck that looks like it's from the 80s; Start an impromptu dance party in the park at midnight. The list went on and on, each idea sillier and more whimsical than the last.

"You're seriously planning to do all of these things?" Eli asked, laughing softly. "What's next? Join a flash mob?"

"Maybe!" Alison replied, her eyes twinkling mischievously. "We could do a flash mob in the middle of downtown, just to make everyone's day a little weirder. I'm sure we'd totally nail it."

Eli rolled his eyes playfully, but there was a warmth in his expression, a softness that came from knowing how much this moment meant to Alison. He could see how much effort she'd put into this list-how much she wanted to make every moment they had left together count. It was classic Alison, always living in the moment, always finding ways to make life a little brighter, a little more fun.

"Okay, okay," he said, holding up his hands in mock surrender. "I'll go along with your ridiculous plans. But only because it sounds like it could actually be a good time."

Alison's face lit up with joy, and she reached over to squeeze his hand. "Yes! You won't regret it. I promise. We're going to make this summer unforgettable. No regrets."

Eli smiled, his heart swelling as he looked at her. He was used to her sunshiney energy, her spontaneous ideas, but this-this list-felt different. It wasn't just about having fun. It was about making memories, about creating something that would last long after the summer was over. And, honestly? He loved it. He loved her.

"You know, you might just be onto something here, Alison," he said, his voice soft.

She beamed at him, her eyes sparkling with affection. "I know, right? I told you. Every moment counts."

He squeezed her hand back. "Alright, let's do it. Let's make every moment count."

Alison leaned back into the hammock, content, watching the clouds drift by. Eli joined her, lying down beside her with his hands behind his head, both of them silently agreeing that this summer would be one for the books. And no matter what came next, they'd have each other-and that was more than enough.

The afternoon sun hung lazily in the sky, casting long shadows across the parking lot as Alison and Eli pulled into the vibrant lot of Golf N' Stuff. The smell of popcorn wafted through the air, and the sound of laughter and the clinking of arcade machines created a buzzing energy that matched Alison's excitement.

Eli couldn't help but smile at her enthusiasm. She was practically bouncing in her seat, her sun-kissed hair falling in waves around her shoulders, her eyes sparkling like she couldn't wait to dive into the chaos of the arcade. The whole place screamed "childhood memories" and "unfiltered fun," and Eli could feel the nostalgia starting to creep in too, even though he wasn't usually the first one to rush into things like this.

"Alright, let's do this!" Alison exclaimed, practically jumping out of the car before it had even fully stopped. Her oversized tie-dye shirt swirled around her as she dashed toward the entrance, her energy infectious. "I can already feel it. Today's gonna be epic."

Eli followed her at a more measured pace, rolling his eyes but smiling at how she just couldn't help herself. He had no idea how it was possible for someone to be so consistently happy, but Alison managed to do it with ease. She was always so full of light, so full of ideas, that even on his more introverted days, he found himself getting swept up in her vibe.

When they stepped inside the arcade, the neon lights blinked and flashed, and the sound of electronic music mixed with the squeals of other kids and teenagers in the place. The air smelled faintly of popcorn and cotton candy, and the whole atmosphere felt like a throwback to simpler times. The place was a playground for both kids and adults, and it had a timeless appeal that made Eli's heart race with a strange excitement.

"Okay, what's first?" Alison grinned, looking around with wide eyes, taking in the many games scattered across the room.

Eli scanned the area, his competitive side immediately kicking in. "I say we hit the racing games first. I'll totally destroy you in Hydro Thunder."

Alison grinned back at him, her eyes narrowing playfully. "Oh, you think so, huh? Well, I've got a few tricks up my sleeve." She took a deep breath, dramatically stretching her arms above her head. "But let's make it interesting. Loser buys snacks."

Eli snorted. "Deal. Prepare to be destroyed."

They made their way over to the racing game, and Eli slid into the seat with the ease of someone who had spent hours at the wheel. The game started, and he was immediately focused, hands gripping the wheel as if his life depended on it. Alison, on the other hand, had no problem laughing through her concentration. She wasn't taking it too seriously, but she was still having a blast, her face lighting up whenever her car sped ahead.

The race was a whirlwind of sound, flashing lights, and rapid movements, with Eli pulling ahead at first, but Alison quickly gaining ground. Her laugh echoed through the room as she swerved around a sharp turn with a dramatic flair.

"Oh, come on!" Eli said, glancing at her out of the corner of his eye. "That's cheating! You're too good at this."

Alison just smiled brightly, her face glowing with joy as she passed him on the final lap, leaving him in the dust. She crossed the finish line with ease, pumping her fist in the air. "Yes! I told you, you had no chance. I'm practically a racing prodigy."

Eli sighed, trying to suppress his grin. "Okay, okay, you win this round. But just wait until we hit the skeeball machines."

He wasn't worried-skeeball was his territory. But Alison had a sparkle in her eye that made him nervous. There was no telling what she was capable of.

They walked over to the skeeball area, where the machines lined the walls, their flashing lights welcoming them to the challenge. Alison immediately jumped into action, tossing her first ball with an easy grace, watching as it sailed smoothly into the 50-point hole with a satisfying thunk.

Eli raised an eyebrow. "Okay, that was impressive. But don't think I'll let you get away with this that easily."

He threw his ball, making a dramatic motion with his arm as if he were aiming for an Olympic gold medal. The ball bounced around and landed in the 30-point area. He let out an exaggerated groan. "Ugh, not my best work."

Alison giggled, her laughter infectious. "You've got to put some feeling into it, Eli! Like this!"

With an exaggerated flourish, Alison grabbed another ball, her posture becoming ridiculously dramatic as she made an over-the-top throwing motion, launching the ball effortlessly into the 100-point hole. She beamed as the machine rewarded her with a "SCORE!"

Eli stared at her in disbelief. "Hold up. How are you this good at skeeball?"

"I told you," she said with a wink, "I have hidden talents. Now, keep up, mister."

Eli shook his head, narrowing his eyes in playful competition. He tossed another ball, and this time it did land in the 100-point hole. The score flashed across the screen, and he grinned, leaning back in his chair with a smug look on his face. "Okay, now it's game on."

The two of them continued to throw ball after ball, racking up points and laughing like a couple of kids. Every time Alison would land a high score, she'd turn to Eli, her eyes wide with triumph. "How is this happening?" she'd laugh, her happiness contagious. "I'm a skeeball master!"

Eli chuckled, feeling the intensity of the competition bubbling up inside him. He refused to let her win-not without a fight. But no matter how hard he tried, Alison seemed to have the upper hand, sinking shot after shot with perfect precision. He could hardly keep up with her antics, and before long, the machine spat out a ridiculous amount of tickets, far more than they could ever use.

"Well, this is... embarrassing," Eli said with a laugh as he scanned the pile of tickets they had accumulated. "How many tickets do we even have?"

"Enough for something great," Alison said, not missing a beat. She had that determined, sunshiney look in her eyes that always meant she was up to something. "I'm thinking... matching friendship bracelets!"

Eli blinked, staring at her for a moment. "Are you serious?"

"Why not?" she said with a shrug, grinning widely. "We've had an epic day. It only makes sense to make it official."

"Matching friendship bracelets? Really?" Eli teased.

"Yep!" Alison said, practically bouncing over to the prize counter with a huge grin, dragging him along. "You'll love it. Trust me. It's the perfect memento for this crazy day."

Eli followed her reluctantly, still a little baffled by how seriously she was taking this, but the truth was, he couldn't deny how happy it made her. They spent the next few minutes scouring through the various trinkets, finally picking out a simple set of matching bracelets: a thin leather cord with colorful beads that seemed to capture Alison's colorful spirit in every little knot.

When they got them, Alison immediately slid hers on her wrist with a flourish, then took Eli's hand and placed it gently on his arm. "Now we're officially friends for life," she said with a grin that could rival the sun. "No going back!"

Eli chuckled and glanced down at the bracelet, a soft smile tugging at his lips. It was cheesy-definitely not something he would've picked out on his own-but there was something undeniably endearing about it, about her, and about how the day had turned into something so much more than just a trip to the arcade.

"You know," Eli said, his voice softening, "I think you might be right. This was pretty great."

Alison beamed at him, her eyes wide and glowing with happiness. "See? Sometimes the silliest things are the ones that count the most."

Eli smiled, leaning in to bump her shoulder with his. "I'm starting to believe that."

The car hummed quietly as it glided along the winding road, the night air flowing in through the cracked window. Eli's hands were casually on the wheel, but his mind wasn't on the drive. Alison, sitting beside him with her feet tucked up under her, was humming along to the music that played softly in the background, her hand resting on the window as she gazed out at the dark countryside passing by. The peaceful rhythm of the night settled around them, cocooning them in a rare quiet moment.

Alison had insisted on taking this drive with no particular destination in mind. "Let's just go," she'd said, her face lighting up as she spoke. "I don't know, somewhere quiet. Somewhere we can just... be."

Eli had agreed, though the truth was he couldn't help but feel a little more than just relaxed. He couldn't quite shake the tension in his chest-the pressure of the future, the fact that in a few short months, things were going to change. So much was going to change. He glanced over at Alison, her hair blowing slightly in the breeze, her face soft with contentment. She was so easy to be around, and he couldn't remember the last time he'd felt this peaceful.

Eventually, they turned off the main road, driving deeper into the darkened woods until they found a small, secluded park. It was one of those quiet, out-of-the-way places, the kind that felt untouched by the outside world. The parking lot was empty, the only sounds the rustling of the trees and the soft chirp of crickets.

Eli parked the car beneath a thick oak tree, the kind that spread wide branches overhead like a shelter. He got out and stretched, his muscles aching from the long drive, before opening the trunk and pulling out a soft, faded blanket. Alison, already out of the car, skipped ahead and spread it out beneath the stars with a dramatic flourish.

"Perfect!" she declared, lying down on her back and spreading her arms out wide like she was trying to hug the whole sky. "This is exactly what we needed."

Eli shook his head, a grin tugging at his lips as he lay down next to her, his hands behind his head, looking up at the sky. The stars were brilliant tonight-bright pinpricks against the velvety black canvas of the night. It felt like they were in their own little world, far from everything and everyone.

For a moment, neither of them said anything. The quiet of the night, combined with the stillness of the park, was enough to settle both of their minds. Eli could feel the weight of everything he'd been holding in for the past few weeks-the impending move to California, the pressure to figure out what came next, the feeling of everything slipping through his fingers. It wasn't something he'd talked about with anyone-not even Alison. But tonight, under the stars, it felt like the perfect time to let some of that go.

Alison, however, broke the silence first.

"This is nice," she said, her voice soft, almost wistful. "I love it when everything just slows down, you know?"

Eli turned his head to look at her. Her eyes were closed, her face turned toward the sky as though she could see the constellations shifting in her mind. The way she spoke-so sure, so present-reminded him of how she always seemed to find peace in the chaos. It was one of the things he admired most about her.

"Yeah," he said, his voice quieter than usual. "It's nice."

There was a beat of silence between them. Eli wasn't sure why he was about to say what he said next, but the words tumbled out before he could stop them.

"I'm just... really trying to take it all in," he admitted, his gaze still fixed on the sky. "I mean, everything's about to change, right? You're staying here, and I'm going to California, and... I don't know. It's just kind of... a lot. I keep thinking about how different everything is going to be."

Alison shifted beside him, propping herself up on her elbow to look at him, her eyes soft with understanding. "I get that," she said, her voice steady and calm, as though she had expected this moment. "It's kind of hard not to think about the future when it's staring you in the face, right?"

Eli nodded, his jaw tightening slightly. "Yeah. I'm kind of freaking out, if I'm being honest. I don't know how to deal with all of it. Like... am I even ready for it? And then there's you, and I can't help but think about what happens after-how everything's going to feel different."

Alison's face softened even more, her lips pulling into a slight smile, though there was a touch of sadness behind her eyes. She reached out, gently resting her hand on his arm. It was a small, simple gesture, but it felt like a tether, pulling him back to the present, back to her.

"Eli," she said softly, "I'm scared too. So scared. I mean, I've been trying to pretend like everything's fine, but it's not. I've been thinking about how you're leaving, and... how we're both going to be different people in different places. And I don't know how to handle that."

Her voice trembled slightly at the end, and Eli turned to her, his heart tightening. The last thing he wanted was to make her feel uncertain, but he understood what she was saying. It wasn't just about him-this was about both of them, and everything they'd built together.

"I didn't know you were worried," he said, his voice soft but steady. "You always seem so okay with things. Like you can handle anything."

Alison laughed quietly, a small, self-deprecating sound that made Eli's heart ache. "I like to pretend I am. But, yeah, sometimes I'm not. I think I try to hide it because I don't want to seem... weak, I guess. But when I think about you leaving, and not being able to just... run into you whenever I want, or not being able to talk to you about dumb stuff, or... just not being with you like we are now... that really freaks me out. It makes me feel like everything's going to fall apart."

Eli rolled over onto his side, propping himself up on one elbow, so he was facing her directly. He saw the way her shoulders were slightly hunched, as if she were carrying something heavy, something she hadn't fully let herself put down.

"Hey," he said gently, his voice more serious now, "you don't have to worry about that. I promise you, no matter how far apart we are, nothing is going to change between us. You're one of the most important people in my life. That's not going to go away. Ever."

Alison's eyes softened, the faintest hint of tears shimmering at the edges of her gaze, but she held them back, offering him a smile that was both vulnerable and reassuring. "You really mean that, don't you?"

"I do," Eli assured her, his voice steady and filled with sincerity. "I'm not going to let distance change anything. I'll always be here for you, no matter what. It doesn't matter where we are, or what we're doing. We'll always find our way back to each other."

Alison's breath caught in her throat, and she slowly reached out, her fingers gently brushing against his. The simple contact sent a jolt of warmth through him, and he could feel the connection between them deepening. She smiled then, a wide, bright smile that made her eyes sparkle in the moonlight.

"Okay," she said, the word filled with a quiet relief. "Then I guess I can breathe a little easier."

Eli smiled back at her, reaching for her hand and squeezing it gently. "Me too. I guess we're in this together, right?"

"Always," Alison whispered, squeezing his hand back, her voice full of certainty.

For a long while, they lay there, side by side, in comfortable silence, watching the stars twinkle above them. The night stretched out around them, and even though the future loomed ahead, it didn't seem so scary anymore. Not with each other. Not with the promise of always being there.

Alison was sitting cross-legged on the floor of her room, a stack of magazines and Pinterest boards spread out around her. The late afternoon sunlight filtered through the window, casting a warm golden hue across the room, making everything feel a little softer, a little more peaceful. She was holding a colorful pen in her hand, tapping it against her chin as she stared at the pages in front of her.

It wasn't that she disliked parties-she was just more into quiet, meaningful moments than the loud, crowded kind of events that everyone seemed to expect. But this wasn't just any party. This was for Eli, and that meant it had to be perfect.

She was determined to make it a night he'd never forget.

Alison's mind raced with ideas-things that were meaningful to him, things they'd both enjoyed over the past few years. But she knew she couldn't do it alone. She needed some help to really bring this vision to life. That's why, when Moon texted asking if she wanted to meet up, Alison jumped at the chance.

She wasn't surprised when Moon and Yasmine showed up at her house that evening, ready to get to work. The three of them had been through a lot together over the years, and Alison felt like they knew exactly how to make any event-no matter how big or small-something special.

Moon was the first to walk into the room, her usual laid-back energy settling into the space. She immediately made herself comfortable by flopping onto the bed with a sigh.

"Okay," Moon said, grinning as she looked at the scattered materials. "So, what's the plan? What are we doing for Eli? And, more importantly, what can I do to make it absolutely ridiculous?"

Yasmine rolled her eyes from where she stood near the window, already holding a notepad in her hand. "Moon, stop trying to make everything into a joke," she said, but her tone was teasing. "Alison's serious about this party. She wants it to be special for Eli."

Alison smiled warmly at Yasmine, grateful for her support. "Exactly. This isn't just another party. I want it to feel like his night, you know? A night that he'll remember for years to come, before he goes off to Caltech and... and everything changes."

Moon, ever the optimist, sat up, a playful glint in her eyes. "Okay, okay. I get it. No jokes. But what about a surprise theme? Something wild but still meaningful, so it's not just like a generic 'going-away' party."

Alison's eyes lit up at the idea. "Ooh, I love that. Something unexpected. But what kind of theme?"

Moon's face brightened even more, and she leaned forward, her eyes alight with excitement. "Well, think about all the things that Eli loves. Like, for real, what's his vibe? I'm thinking... 80s nostalgia vibes. Retro arcade, neon lights, maybe a few obscure video games. You know, something that takes him back to his roots-his love of the classics."

Alison clapped her hands together, nearly bouncing with excitement. "That's so perfect! He loves that stuff, especially when we've had those game nights at the arcade. It would totally hit home."

Yasmine, who had been quietly writing down notes, looked up. "I like the idea of a theme, but we'll have to keep it low-key, right? I mean, we want him to feel comfortable. Nothing too over-the-top or... chaotic."

Alison paused for a moment, considering. "Totally. No crazy, loud party stuff, just... an atmosphere that feels like us. Maybe we can decorate with vintage video game posters and set up an old-school snack bar-like, pizza, popcorn, maybe even some cotton candy. Oh! And those little arcade tokens! We could give them out as party favors."

"Good idea," Moon said, her eyes already shining with ideas. "We could even set up some games. Like, a retro arcade machine or a few rounds of Mario Kart. Nothing fancy, but just enough to get people into the spirit of it. And we could make a photo booth with props that look like they're straight out of a 1980s teen movie. Maybe even get him a custom-made 'Eli' T-shirt to wear during the party. Like, really lean into the vibe."

Alison let out a little laugh at Moon's over-the-top energy. "Oh, you're going all in, huh? I love it. That's exactly the kind of thing I want." She glanced over at Yasmine, who had a thoughtful expression on her face. "What do you think, Yasmine?"

Yasmine looked over her notes and then shrugged. "I think it's a good idea. I mean, we all know Eli loves a good arcade game. It's just... I don't know if he'd want a huge party. I don't think he's the type for a lot of attention. You know?"

Alison nodded slowly, her fingers brushing over the papers in front of her. "I get that. Eli's not into big shows or anything. But it's not about the size of the party. It's about making him feel appreciated, you know? Giving him one last night where he gets to just be himself before everything changes. I want him to feel like he's leaving with a memory that's totally his. One that feels like it came from the heart."

Yasmine softened, her expression showing a rare moment of warmth. "Okay, I see where you're going with this. I can help with the little details, like the snacks and setting up the music. But, I'll be honest-I'm not much for the cutesy stuff, so you two can handle that."

Alison smiled at her, appreciating her honesty. "Of course! We'll take care of all the little decorations and stuff. You can help with the food-things that Eli will actually eat. Maybe you can even find some cool vegan options for him."

Yasmine raised an eyebrow, clearly amused. "Vegan options? For Eli? Are you sure he'll actually eat them?"

Alison grinned, her eyes sparkling with determination. "I'll make sure of it. He's a good sport about food. It'll be perfect."

Moon sat up and stretched, looking at both of them with a smile. "I think we've got a solid plan here. So, what do we still need to figure out? We've got the theme, the food... maybe we need a killer playlist for the night. Something that gets everyone hyped but also has a few nostalgic tracks. Like, throw in some classic rock, some 80s jams, maybe even a few cheesy songs to make everyone laugh."

Alison clapped her hands together again, excitement bubbling up. "Yes! We'll make it fun, lighthearted, and just the right mix of silly and sentimental. And I think Eli will love it. I want him to feel like we really made an effort, you know?"

Moon and Yasmine exchanged a look, and then Moon gave a playful salute. "You got it, sunshine. It's gonna be legendary."

Yasmine shrugged but smiled. "Yeah, alright. Let's do this. It's for Eli, after all."

Alison grinned, her heart light and full of warmth. She felt a sense of peace settle over her. Despite her usual dislike of big events, she could already tell this one would be different. This one would be about showing Eli just how much he meant to them before he left. And she was ready to make it perfect.

"I'm so glad we're doing this together," Alison said, looking from Moon to Yasmine. "I really think it's going to be something special."

Moon grinned. "You know it is, sunshine. We've got this."

And just like that, the plan was set. The party would be a celebration of Eli's past and future, a night that would bring everyone together in a way they'd never forget. And for Alison, that was exactly what she wanted to give him-one last unforgettable memory, before Caltech stole him away.

ASH SPEAKS!!!

as i said, alison and eli chapter<3
the goaway party will be in a few chapters!
tory and jackson chapter is next!

i'm actually so done with ghost readers! this is why im so unmotivated to write

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the reason i keep unpublishing and republishing is chapters is because when i see views go up and votes aren't... its really annoying. cause its not hard to vote and show support on fanfics.

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STOP BEING A GHOST READER!!
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